While the Asian American population is growing rapidly, relatively little research has focused on intergroup health comparisons. The application of the life course perspective sheds new light on the inter-section of the ageing process and social determinants of health. This study compares physician use and health equity among Asian ethnic groups and non-Hispanic Whites. Data on Asian American and non-Hispanic White immigrants over 65 were extracted from the California Health Interview Survey. Weighted logistic regression models were tested applying the Commission on Social Determinants of Health model. Intergroup differences in physician use and health equity were observed. Furthermore, physician use and health varied among the groups by age. The diverse background of older Asian Americans and the differential effects of the ageing process point to the need for novel interventions to promote health among this population.

US Census Bureau (2008) Table 17. Projections of the Asian alone population by age and sex for the United States: 2010 to 2050 (NP2008-T17), DC: Population Division, US Census Bureau.
http://www.census.gov/population/www/projections/summarytables.html

Solar O. and Irwin A. (2007) A conceptual framework for action on the social determinants of health. Discussion paper for the commission on social determinants of health. World Health Organization, Geneva.
http://en.scientificcommons.org/23007732